How is interpreting a CT for Joe not ‘Joe-centered’ radiology?

As the concept of patient-centered radiology becomes a ubiquitous touchpoint within the profession, some are questioning what, exactly, “PCR” consists of—both as an ideal and in real-world, daily practice.

The influential radiologist Saurabh Jha takes up the question in breezy yet substantive commentary published Aug. 10 at Medscape.com.

“Radiologists may reasonably wonder how interpreting a CT for Joe performed for abdominal pain is not Joe-centered radiology,” he writes.

More:

“It must be emphasized that speaking to patients will not increase the radiologist’s bottom line. However, holding this activity ransom to reimbursement is rather akin to refusing to leave the Titanic until another Titanic comes along. … If the mountain will not come to Muhammed, then Muhammed must go to the mountain—or at least attend the daily rounds in the intensive care unit.”